COVID19

Publications

Network Exclusive

State ARPA/SLFRF Spending Workbooks

These workbooks track spending of the $350 billion in State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) awarded to state, local, territorial, and tribal governments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting economic downturn. The U.S. Treasury has mandated that these funds must be obligated by December 31, 2024. The aim of this analysis is to inform stakeholders about the allocation of these funds in their communities, so that this one-time injection of dollars can be used to promote the general welfare. This analysis spans January 1st, 2024 – March 31st, 2024 and will be updated as new data become available. Questions or suggestions? Email [email protected].

Last updated July 30th, 2024

Publication

Federal Relief and Recovery Funding and Massachusetts’ Transportation Future

Key Takeaways

  • Although crucial to how we live and connect to opportunity, Massachusetts transportation systems are inadequate and inequitable.
  • Federal COVID-19 relief has provided $3.3 billion to Massachusetts for public transit, airports, Amtrak, and the Department of Transportation.
  • ARPA fiscal recovery funds ($5.3 billion to the state and $3.4 to municipalities) could also support transportation needs, such as cutting or eliminating transit fares or quick construction projects.
  • The infrastructure bill moving through Congress could provide significant one-time transportation funding, but the Commonwealth will still need longer-term revenues for operations and upkeep.
  • The Fair Share Amendment ballot question coming before voters in November 2022 can provide longer-term revenues to help sustain improved transportation systems.
Publication

Using State Fiscal Recovery Funds: Sustainable, Equitable, and Community-Driven Planning

Key Takeaways

  • Spending federal relief dollars should be cross-sectional and community-driven.
  • The plan for utilizing ARPA fiscal recovery funds should include long-term revenue options to sustain critical investments.
  • ARPA recovery fund usage is not limited based on citizenship, and addressing the disparate impact of COVID-19 is encouraged – so funds can and should be used equitably and inclusively.